Erectile dysfunction drugs may lower Alzheimer's risk, UCL scientists suggest
These British scientists have revealed their unexpected discovery. They have demonstrated that sildenafil, a compound found in erectile dysfunction drugs, might lower the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. In support of this thesis, the researchers analysed numerous cases.
It's important to remember not to start a regimen of erectile dysfunction drugs on your own, especially not in large quantities, and always consult with your doctor prior to usage. The adverse effects of consuming such medications could be harmful to your health.
An unusual 'side effect' of drugs for erectile dysfunction
The British researchers scanned databases and found men over 40 who had used erectile dysfunction drugs. From 2000 to 2017, they found as many as 269,700 cases. The scientists then investigated how many men in this group later received a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Out of all men, there were 1,100 cases. Results indicated that erectile dysfunction drugs could reduce the risk of this condition.
The analyses demonstrated that everything hinges on one specific substance, a 'messenger' involved in expanding blood vessels, known as cyclic guanosine monophosphate (or cGMP for short). This same compound plays a vital role in Alzheimer's disease - the less of it present in the brain, the quicker the patient's condition worsens.
The British researchers clarified that in the case of the 'side' effects of erectile dysfunction drugs, the impact depends on the dosage. It was shown that men who used these drugs more frequently seemed to be better protected against the aforementioned disease.
